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Twins mark anniversary of Gehrig's speech with tribute

MINNESOTA -- The Twins paid tribute to Lou Gehrig on Friday, the 75th anniversary of his "Luckiest Man" speech, by playing a special video on the stadium's big screen.

The video -- which was played in different forms across the country on Friday -- featured Derek Jeter, Joe Mauer and various other Yankees and Twins reciting different parts of Gehrig's famous speech.

Before Friday's game, manager Joe Girardi reflected on Gehrig's important place in history.

"I think it's an important day, obviously in American history," Girardi said. "But it's also an important day in Yankee history, what Lou Gehrig represented. The type of player he was. The type of man he was. And what he meant to this organization. So it's a really special day."

Players, coaches and umpires across MLB wore special 75th-anniversary patches on their sleeves during Friday's games. The league also donated $300,000 to three organizations leading the fight against ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).

"When Lou Gehrig delivered his historic farewell speech at Yankee Stadium 75 years ago, he indelibly linked our National Pastime to the fight against the disease that would bear his name," Commissioner Bud Selig said. "As the fight continues today, it is our privilege to pay tribute to the Iron Horse's enduring legacy of courage and nobility. In his memory, and for all those who are affected by ALS, Major League Baseball is honored to do its part to advance the cause in the hopes of finding a cure."

Alex M. Smith is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.